Maryland officials are tightening controls regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in government operations due to data management issues and the unpredictability of artificial intelligence technologies. State and local governments are prescribing strict implementation procedures before authorizing the integration of AI into public services.
In January, Governor Wes Moore signed the executive order to advocate and provide a clear framework for AI governance, stressing that AI needs regulation because it is beneficial but can also create risks such as privacy breaches. This resulted in the establishment of an AI subcabinet chaired by Maryland Secretary of Information Technology Katie Savage that was aimed at helping establish frameworks on the implementation of the AI responsible in the state.
Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County enforce AI disclosure rules
Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County are becoming stricter on how AI is used. An executive order by Baltimore City’s Mayor, Brandon Scott, established a practice of full disclosure whenever any generative AI tool is used in the preparation of any city government report, document, or any type of communication. This order also restricts workers from putting any internal information into AI platforms like ChatGPT as there are fears that such actions may lead to the leak of sensitive information out of government agencies.
Similarly, Anne Arundel County has acted prudently and with caution. Chief Information Officer Jack Martin requires any county agency that intends to use generative AI to register with his office and take a constant evaluation of the performance of the technology.
While AI has cut the workload in activities such as summarizing 311 calls, Martin pointed out that such technology is still unpredictable, citing a failed attempt to set up a contractor permit database.
Maryland tightens data security measures as AI use expands
Maryland’s officials prioritize data protection even as they explore the potential of AI. Secretary Katie Savage was clear that safeguarding the state’s data is very important, especially regarding the involvement of third-party vendors.
Currently, the state controls several data centers and also has agreements with IT giants like Google and Microsoft for cloud storage. Her office is also very keen on these contracts as she has to ascertain that all data under those arrangements is properly secured and that the terms of third parties are in line with the security requirements of the state.
Experts also weigh in on the importance of a cautious approach. For example, Dr. Kofi Nyarko, a professor at Morgan State University, said that there is a possibility of AI gathering and processing more data than is necessary which may undermine data privacy and security. He advised that sensitive data be stored on servers within the country instead of storing such data on the cloud.
Source: https://www.cryptopolitan.com/maryland-strict-controls-on-ai-in-government/